Use Standard Variables

Introduction

Standard variables can be referenced in a number of different locations, including SQL Rules, MDX Rules, Forms, Dashboards, and more. To reference a Standard Variable, simply use the format: ${variable_name}

Note: For more information on defining Standard Variables, check out this article.

SQL Rules

All Standard Variables are contained in the [dbo].[ApplicationVariables] table. Here we can refer to the variable name and value through SQL queries.

MDX Rules

Standard Variables can also be used in MDX scripts. Upon deployment, the variable values will be deployed in place of the variable names.

Forms

We can also use Standard Variables when designing Forms. In the example below, ${Prior Months}, ${Forward Months}, and ${Dynamic Scenario} are all Standard Variables.

To add a variable, first choose the axis dimension you want to add the variable to, then click the Variable button in the ribbon.

Dashboards

Standard Variables are accessible in Dashboard text and image components as well.

Note: For more information on using variables within a dashboard, check out the System Variables in this article.

In the example below, the variable ${Current Year} was configured with the value 2019 and will resolve as such when we click away from the text editor.

In addition, Standard Variables can also be used in this way when creating hyperlinks, both through text and images. This could be useful for directing traffic between developer and production environments.